Rolle demoted; Jordan starting at weak-side linebacker

Jeff McLane

Posted:
Sunday, August 26, 2012, 12:50 PM

The Eagles promoted Akeem Jordan to starting weak-side linebacker in place of the struggling Brian Rolle, Andy Reid said today.

Rolle had a rough game Friday night against the Browns and did not put a stamp on the position through the preseason. Jordan, the long-time Eagle who has started at all three linebacker positions at some point in his career, gets another chance with the first team.

Reid said that Jamar Chaney was also in the mix for that spot, but the third-year linebacker has a slight hamstring strain and is still not 100 percent.

-- As expected, defensive tackle Mike Patterson won't be ready for the season opener and will be out an extended period of time. Reid said there was a chance he could miss the entire season. Patterson had brain surgery in January.

-- Reid said that it would be a struggle for wide receiver Riley Cooper (collarbone) and linebacker Casey Matthews (high ankle sprain) to be ready by the season opener on Sept. 9 at the Browns.

-- Defensive end Jason Babin (calf) is making progress and is still on target to return in time for the opener.

-- Reid said that King Dunlap was still his starting left tackle and won't play in the preseason finale against the New York Jets Thursday night, a sure sign that he will open the season as the starter ahead of Demetress Bell.

-- Reid said quarterback Michael Vick (bruised ribs) threw today during the morning walk-through and that he would be eligible to practice if this were a normal week.

-- Mike Kafka will have his broken left hand evaluated tomorrow. Reid sounded optimistic that the quarterback would be able to participate in Thursday's game.

-- Joselio Hanson is still the first team nickel cornerback ahead of rookie Brandon Boykin, Reid said. Hanson probably won't play against the Jets.

-- Colt Anderson (torn ACL) is making progress, but Reid said the safety wasn't completely healthy. Anderson is likely to start the season on the PUP list.

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